Hartz recalls beef dog treats

SECAUCUS, N.J., Sept. 5 (UPI) -- The Hartz Mountain Corp. is recalling about 75,000 bags of its beef dog treats because one or more could be tainted by salmonella, federal officials say.

The pet food company, based in Secaucus, N.J., is voluntarily recalling one specific lot of Hartz Naturals Real Beef Treats for Dogs and is cooperating with the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, the agency said in a release on its Web site Friday.

Salmonella can cause serious infections in young children, frail or elderly people, and others with weakened immune systems, the FDA said. Symptoms may include fever, diarrhea, abdominal pain and nausea in both dogs and humans.

The recall involves 8-oz bags of Hartz Naturals Real Beef Treats for Dogs, lot code BZ0969101E, UPC number 32700-11519. The treats were imported by Hartz from a Brazilian supplier, Bertin S.A. and distributed to a number of U.S. customers.

While regular testing conducted by Bertin prior to shipment to the United States did not detect any salmonella, random sample testing conducted by the FDA indicated its presence. Hartz is investigating the source of the problem, the FDA said.

Hartz had not received any reports of animals or humans becoming ill after coming into contact with the dog treats, but is taking steps to remove the product from all retail stores and distribution centers.

The FDA recommends dog owners who purchased this product immediately discontinue its use and discard it in a proper manner.

Consumers can contact Hartz at 1-800-275-1414 if they have any questions and for information on how to obtain reimbursement for purchased product.